1. Types of Release Indeterminate Sentences Determinate Sentences
Discretionary Parole
Other names that do the same thing
Determinate Sentences
Expiration
Early, good time, administrative parole
Traditional “hook” = some type of early release
Now, even if “expire” = supervision
Only 2 states have no post-release supervision

2. Parole as a prison valve
Original intent in theory (history) = judge “reformation”
But, population control and institutional control always in background
Recently, more institutionalized
States give statutory power to parole board
Informal agreement between governor and parole board

3. The Parole Board Functions Release inmates from prison
Set conditions of parole
Discharge parolee when conditions met
Revocation decisions
Other administrative
E.g., restore civil rights, review pardons

4. Who’s Who on the Board Most are full-time, salaried employees
Wide variation in board size (3-59)
Qualifications?
Read text… “should” … “ideally”…

5. Parole Hearing Actual hearing largely ceremonial in most states
In some cases, they only review paper file
Even if hearing, file still most important
Decision = yes/no/wait
Who else is around?
Most states = no attorney, no family
Victims?

6. Parole Guidelines
Prior to 1970s, decisions based on hearings and whims of board members
Even here, based on “seriousness” and “prior record”
Risk instruments
Risk score x Offense severity
Federal = Salient Factor Score

7. Parole Guidelines II The Good? The Bad? The Ugly? Reduce bias
More efficient and safer decisions
Actuarial better than “clinical”
The Bad?
All of the “risk predictors” are static
Inmates realize this (see inmate perceptions)
More faith in appeals process than parole
The Ugly?

9. Due Process for Parole Decision
Greenholtz v. Inmates of Nebraska…
Inmate complaints?
Question fairness of hearing (unconstitutionally denied parole)
State’s hearing process
State’s notification process
Supreme court upholds Nebraska’s statue
Reasonable notice
Initial hearing where inmate can present case
Reasons for denial
One hearing per year is enough